Wedding Dinner: Hors D'oeuvres As A Main Course?

There are many considerations to make when deciding whether to serve a full dinner or hors d'oeuvres at a wedding. Firstly, the time of day is important, as guests may expect a full meal during certain hours. For example, a reception held between 1 pm and 5 pm may be more suited to hors d'oeuvres, whereas an evening reception may require a more substantial meal. It is also crucial to communicate the food arrangements to guests beforehand, to avoid disappointment or hunger. While some sources suggest that hors d'oeuvres can be more expensive due to the labour involved, others argue that DIY or buffet-style hors d'oeuvres can significantly reduce costs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference, budget, and the desired atmosphere for the wedding.

Hors d'oeuvres can be cheaper than a sit-down meal, but they can also be more expensive

Hors d'oeuvres can be a great alternative to a traditional sit-down meal at a wedding reception. It can be a more affordable option, especially if you're looking to cut costs on catering. However, it's important to note that the cost of hors d'oeuvres can vary depending on the type and quantity of food served, and in some cases, it may even be more expensive than a plated dinner.

When planning a wedding reception, one of the biggest expenses is often the food. Serving hors d'oeuvres instead of a full meal can be a strategic way to reduce costs. This is especially true if you choose heavy hors d'oeuvres, which are more substantial and can fill your guests up without the need for a separate entrée. By opting for protein-rich options like shrimp cocktail, steak kebabs, or even casual choices like chicken wings or sliders, you can provide your guests with a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

However, it's important to remember that the cost of hors d'oeuvres can vary significantly. Passed hors d'oeuvres, for example, may be priced per piece, and the more variety you offer, the higher the cost. Additionally, if you choose to have multiple food stations or add-ons like caviar or smoked salmon, the price per person can quickly escalate. In some cases, a plated dinner may be a more cost-effective option, especially if your venue offers package deals or has lower prices for larger quantities of food.

The decision to serve hors d'oeuvres or a sit-down meal should ultimately depend on your personal preference, the style of your wedding, and your budget. If you're set on having a more casual and relaxed atmosphere where guests can mingle and dance without being tied to their seats, hors d'oeuvres may be the perfect choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more formal and traditional reception with a clear structure, a sit-down meal might be more suitable.

To make an informed decision, it's essential to get quotes from multiple caterers or venues and compare the prices for both options. Be sure to consider the number of guests you'll be hosting and the time of your reception, as these factors can also impact the cost and quantity of food required. By weighing your options and considering your priorities, you can decide whether hors d'oeuvres or a sit-down meal is the best choice for your dream wedding.

If you're serving only hors d'oeuvres, make sure to specify this on your invitations

If you're serving only hors d'oeuvres, it's important to specify this on your wedding invitations. This is a crucial detail that your guests need to know in advance so they can plan accordingly. By providing this information upfront, you avoid any confusion or disappointment on the part of your guests, who may be expecting a full dinner.

• Be clear and concise: Use wording such as "Cocktail Reception to Follow" or "Hors d'oeuvres and Dancing" to indicate that the event will primarily feature hors d'oeuvres instead of a seated dinner. This sets the right expectations and ensures your guests understand the format of the reception.
• Timing is important: If you're having a late-night reception or an afternoon reception, it's a good idea to mention that as well. For example, you can say "Join us for an evening of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and celebration starting at 8:00 p.m." or "Afternoon delights: Hors d'oeuvres, drinks, and merriment from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m."
• Provide details on your wedding website: In addition to the invitations, include more information about the food on your wedding website. This gives you an opportunity to elaborate on the types of hors d'oeuvres you'll be serving and any other relevant details. You can also mention if there will be food stations or passed appetizers, so guests know what to expect.
• Consider the time of day: If you're having a daytime wedding, serving hors d'oeuvres may be more suitable and expected. However, if your wedding is in the evening, guests may be anticipating a more substantial meal. In this case, it's especially important to communicate the hors d'oeuvres-only format clearly on the invitations.
• Offer a variety of options: When serving only hors d'oeuvres, aim for a diverse selection that caters to different dietary needs and preferences. Include vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other options to ensure that all your guests have something to enjoy. This information can also be shared on your wedding website or mentioned on the invitations if necessary.
• Heavy hors d'oeuvres are key: Opt for more substantial and filling options that will satisfy your guests in place of a full meal. Think protein-based items like shrimp cocktail, steak kebabs, or sliders. You want your guests to feel content and not leave hungry, especially if there is an open bar.
• Be mindful of portion sizes: Plan to have enough food for everyone, taking into account the number of guests and the expected duration of the reception. As a guideline, aim for 4-5 pieces per person for an hour-long cocktail hour. You may need to adjust this based on the size of the hors d'oeuvres and whether you'll have other food stations.
• Consult with your caterer: If you're working with a caterer, they can provide valuable advice on the quantity and types of hors d'oeuvres to serve. They can also help ensure that your guests' dietary needs are accommodated and that there is enough food to go around.
• Don't forget the drinks: When serving hors d'oeuvres, it's important to pair them with appropriate beverages. Offer a variety of drinks, including non-alcoholic options, to complement the food. Keep in mind that guests may consume more alcohol if there isn't a full dinner, so plan your bar service accordingly.
• Seating considerations: If you're serving only hors d'oeuvres, make sure there is enough seating available for your guests, especially the elderly or those who may have difficulty standing for extended periods. You don't want your guests to be uncomfortable or struggling to balance their drinks and plates while trying to enjoy the reception.

You'll need to provide a substantial amount of food for your guests—enough to replace a meal

If you're serving hors d'oeuvres instead of a traditional sit-down meal at your wedding, it's important to make sure there's enough food to fill your guests up. Here are some tips to ensure your guests are well-fed:

• Plan for enough servings per guest: For a wedding reception, plan for around 15-20 servings of hors d'oeuvres per person if it's the main meal. This may vary depending on the duration of your reception and the appetites of your guests, so consider having some extra food prepared just in case.
• Choose hearty and substantial options: Opt for "heavy" or "hearty" hors d'oeuvres that are more filling and can replace a meal. Some examples include meatballs, shrimp, scallops, sliders, skewers, and dips with bread or chips.
• Variety is key: Offer a variety of options to cater to different tastes and dietary restrictions. Include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices to ensure all your guests can find something substantial to eat.
• Consider food allergies: Be mindful of common food allergies and try to provide alternatives for guests with specific dietary needs.
• Timing is important: The time of day can impact your guests' expectations and appetites. If your wedding is during a typical meal time, such as lunch or dinner, make sure there is enough food to satisfy your guests' hunger.
• Inform your guests: Let your guests know about the style of food service on your wedding invitation. This will help manage their expectations and ensure they don't arrive hungry if they are expecting a full meal.
• Provide adequate seating: If you're serving hors d'oeuvres, ensure there is enough seating for all your guests. Standing and balancing a drink and a plate can be challenging and tiring for your guests.
• Consider the cost: Keep in mind that serving hors d'oeuvres can sometimes be more expensive than a traditional sit-down meal due to the increased preparation time and labour involved.
• Stations vs. passed hors d'oeuvres: To make your food service more efficient and cost-effective, consider setting up various food stations instead of having servers pass around hors d'oeuvres. This allows guests to help themselves and choose their preferred options.
• Combine with a buffet or stations: You could also combine the hors d'oeuvres with a buffet or food stations serving items like pasta, meat, potatoes, and salad to ensure your guests have a variety of filling options.

Consider the dietary requirements of your guests when choosing what to serve

When planning a wedding, it's important to consider the dietary requirements of your guests. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the food and feel included in the celebrations. Here are some tips to help you choose what to serve:

Know Your Guests' Dietary Requirements:

Ask your guests about their dietary needs when sending out invitations or save-the-dates. Include a section on the RSVP card or wedding website where guests can specify any allergies, intolerances, or dietary restrictions. This will give you an idea of the number of guests with special requirements and the types of food you need to provide.

Decide on the Level of Accommodation:

Consider how accommodating you want to be. You might choose to offer a fully vegan menu, for example, or provide separate options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten intolerance. A tiered approach can be effective, offering a vegetarian base menu with modifications for vegan or gluten-free guests.

Choose the Right Caterer:

Select a caterer who is knowledgeable and flexible about dietary restrictions. Ask them about their experience with specialised menus and request references or case studies. Discuss the costs of accommodating special dietary needs, as these menus can be more expensive. Ensure they have protocols in place to avoid cross-contamination, which is critical for severe allergies.

Buffet vs. Plated Dinner:

Buffets offer more choices and are socially interactive, but they carry a higher risk of cross-contamination and may result in guests accidentally choosing dishes they shouldn't eat. With plated dinners, it's easier to manage allergies and dietary restrictions, and there is better portion control. However, this option requires more preparation, and you'll need to collect dietary information from each guest in advance.

Label and Separate Dishes:

Whether you choose a buffet or plated dinner, clearly label all dishes with their ingredients. This helps guests identify options suitable for their dietary needs. Keep dishes well separated to minimise the risk of cross-contamination, especially important for guests with allergies or celiac disease.

Timing and Guest Comfort:

Consider the timing of your reception. If you're only serving appetizers and cocktails, an afternoon reception or a late-night start may be more appropriate. Elderly guests or young children might not find a very late start suitable. Ensure there is enough seating for everyone, especially if you're serving heavy hors d'oeuvres, so guests aren't standing for extended periods.

Remember, communication is key. By asking your guests about their dietary needs and choosing suitable options, you can ensure everyone feels included and well-fed during your special day.

You could set up food stations instead of having servers bring food to guests

You certainly can feed your wedding guests hors d'oeuvres instead of a traditional sit-down dinner. It's a great way to create a memorable reception and offer variety to your guests.

Food Stations

Instead of having servers bring food to guests, you could set up food stations. This is a fun and interactive way to fuel your guests and encourage them to mix and mingle. It also ensures that everyone gets their fill, as some guests may miss out on passed hors d'oeuvres if they stay in the same location. Here are some ideas for food stations:

• A charcuterie board or table with meats, cheeses, fruits, and crackers.
• A raw bar with oysters, shrimp, clams, lobster, and other seafood.
• A taco station with various fillings and toppings.
• A pizza station with different toppings and types of pizza, such as margarita or pineapple.
• A build-your-own waffle bar with various toppings for a brunch wedding.
• A cereal bar with different types of cereal, milk, and toppings.
• A fondue station with melted cheese or chocolate for dipping bread, fruit, or vegetables.
• A Mediterranean buffet with local olives, nuts, and other coastal flavors.
• A vegetable bar with dips such as ranch or hummus.
• A pretzel bar with classic twists, bites, and knots, along with decadent dips.

Frequently asked questions